Antique Smith & Wesson No 3 First Model American Oil Hole Revolver 44 S&W

Up for sale is a used, antique Smith & Wesson No 3 First Model American “Oil Hole” top break single action revolver chambered in 44 S&W/American. Round ribbed barrel has been cut to 5" in length and shows a marginally bright, frosted bore with scattered light to moderate pitting. Metal surfaces are primarily shades of brown patina with areas of gray along with scattered scratches, older pitting, freckling, various marks and some traces of blue in a few of the protected areas. Smooth wood grips have been sanded and refinished at some point and show older softened dings and scratches, some missing wood at the bottom of the panels and there is a small crack in the bottom of the right panel. Revolver is sighted with a German Silver blade front sight that has been soldered back into place after the barrel was cut and the top of the blade is bent and there is a small notch rear on the barrel latch. Barrel to frame fit and lockup has some vertical and horizontal play while cylinder timing appears to be good but lock up has play and the hammer will not stay cocked. Revolver does feature the “oil hole” at the bottom rear of the extractor housing ahead of the hinge on the bottom of the barrel which was present on approximately the first 1500 guns built.